NessCampbell’s New Grove GMK6450-1 Excels in Towboat Assembly 

NessCampbell Crane + Rigging recently partnered with Western Towboat to assemble a new towboat at its Seattle facility, showcasing the debut of North America’s first Grove GMK6450-1 all-terrain crane. This 500-USt (450-ton) crane, a key addition to NessCampbell’s fleet, played a pivotal role alongside a Manitowoc 3900 crawler crane in the project’s success.

The GMK6450-1 managed complex tasks, such as lifting and precisely rotating a 135,000-pound hull and positioning a 58,000-pound towboat house atop the structure. Tight shipyard spaces and Seattle’s unpredictable weather added to the challenge, but meticulous planning and the crane’s advanced features ensured flawless execution.

This six-axle all-terrain crane, equipped with Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS) and MegaWingLift, is designed for versatility, supporting projects like HVAC installations and tower crane assemblies across the Pacific Northwest. John Anderson, NessCampbell’s president, highlighted the GMK6450-1’s superior luffing jib and ease of deployment, reinforcing its strategic value to the fleet.

Following its arrival and inspection, operators and mechanics underwent comprehensive training to maximize the crane’s potential, reflecting NessCampbell’s dedication to innovation and safety.